Monday, July 23, 2007

Hessman Up, Perez Down

The Tigers purchased the contract of infielder Mike Hessman from Toledo and optioned out Timo Perez today. Hessman is a 29 year old right-handed batter who plays first base and third base. With Craig Monroe now healthy, the Tigers had more need for a backup infielder than outfielder. Hessman will serve as Sean Casey's backup and, if he stays around long enough, may spell Brandon Inge at third on occasion.

Hessman is a long time minor leaguer who had brief opportunities with the Braves in 2003-2004. In 90 Major League at bats, he is batting .167 with 4 home runs. He did hit for a lot of power for Toledo this year clubbing 27 home runs and putting up a .256/.352/.551 line in 97 games. The move means that Billfer will not have to write an article explaining why Perez should not be taking at bats away from Ryan Raburn.